Pearly Beach wildfire: Emergency crews rush to aid animals as roads reopen
Emergency crews, including the Animal Welfare Society of SA, are on the ground in Pearly Beach assisting animals and residents as a fast-moving wildfire continues, with several roads reopened but hotspots still active.
Image: AWS/ Facebook
Emergency teams are on the ground in Pearly Beach responding to a rapidly spreading wildfire, with urgent assistance being provided for animal-related emergencies, including injured pets and affected wildlife.
The Animal Welfare Society of SA confirmed that its teams are actively assisting in the area, focusing on rescue, medical treatment and emergency care for animals impacted by the blaze. Members of the public who encounter injured animals are urged to report emergencies immediately.
“Our hearts are with the community during this incredibly difficult time. We are here to help wherever we can,” the organisation said, adding that the scale and speed of the fire have placed severe strain on rescue resources.
The society has appealed for public support to sustain ongoing operations, noting that contributions to its Fire Relief Fund are helping to cover fuel, medical supplies, rescue equipment and ongoing relief efforts.
Meanwhile, the Overstrand Municipality confirmed that several key routes have reopened, although officials warn that conditions remain hazardous in places due to lingering hotspots and smoke.
According to Overstrand municipal manager Dean O’Neill, the R43 between Gansbaai and Pearly Beach is open to traffic, while Pearly Beach Main Road and the Baardskeerdersbos–Pearly Beach gravel road are also open, despite a number of active hotspots where fire services remain deployed.
However, the R43 towards Buffeljags remains closed, with provincial traffic authorities on site managing road safety and access.
Authorities have urged motorists to proceed with caution, follow instructions from emergency personnel, and avoid unnecessary travel in affected areas while firefighting and recovery operations continue.
The latest update was issued at 6am on Wednesday, as efforts to contain the fire and protect both communities and wildlife remain ongoing.
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